Dr Diana M Leitch, MBE, FRSC, is both a chemist and a local historian. She has been researching the history of the chemical industry on both sides of the River Mersey for many years. Born and brought up in Runcorn - at the thriving heart of an industry which developed in Runcorn and Widnes from the 18th century onwards - Diana is descended from Weaver flatmen, who brought the salt from Winsford up to Runcorn, and others who came from Oxfordshire to work in the growing chemical industry in the mid 19th century.  She uses her extensive collection of photographs and personal knowledge in this talk.

Diana is also a Trustee at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum in Widnes (pictured below right), which is based in the old Gossages' soapworks building dating from 1855. She will be bringing some of her local history books for sale, and also greetings cards in support of Catalyst.